Beat the Odds (BTO)

Forget the Statistics

Beat the Odds: Youth Leaders in Problem Gambling Prevention Program

The BTO program is convened by the Springfield Youth Mental Health Coalition and is implemented by our partners at Martin Luther King Jr. Family Services, New North Citizen's Council, and South End Community Center. BTO is a youth-led peer mentoring program that is facilitated under the guidance of a BTO Program Coordinator. The BTO program was developed in response to a need for mental health and gambling awareness amongst Black and Brown communities in the Greater Springfield area. 

Our Mission is to break the cycle of mental health stigma by using youth voices to raise awareness about the impact of social pressures on youth mental health and to empower youth to be equal partners in the process of change for youth mental health care. 

Stay connected! Follow us on social media for mental health and problem gambling tips and information (created by the youth), as well as programs and events happening in the community!

BTO Locations

The Beat the Odds Youth Leaders Program meets at local community centers across Springfield, MA—explore the BTO program at our partner sites and see what other youth opportunities they offer.